- Ethiopia showcased its renewable leadership at IRENA’s 16th Assembly, drawing on its 98% clean power mix and green policy reforms.
- It pledged to support Africa’s goal of tripling renewable energy by 2030 and to leverage its hosting of COP32 in 2027.
Ethiopia reinforced its role as a global leader in the energy transition during the 16th Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in the United Arab Emirates.
Ambassador Jemal Beker stated that the country, as a founding member of the Accelerated Partnership for Renewables in Africa (APRA), is driving Africa’s transition toward a green economy.
He said Ethiopia has introduced transformative policy measures, including a ban on fossil-fuel vehicle imports, positioning the country as a leader in the green industrial revolution.
IRENA convened its top decision-making body during the Assembly to set the global agenda. It approves budgets, endorses work programmes and strengthens international cooperation to accelerate the energy transition.
Ambassador Jemal reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to sharing its experience in developing carbon-free energy. He highlighted the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as more than a power project, describing it as a symbol of regional integration and climate resilience.
He added that Ethiopia will play an active role in helping the continent achieve the Nairobi Declaration goal of tripling renewable energy generation capacity by 2030. Ethiopia also presented policy initiatives promoting green industrial development powered by renewables and expanding access to electric mobility as best-practice models for partner countries.
Ambassador Jemal stated that the 32nd UN Climate Change Conference (COP32), which Ethiopia will host in 2027, will provide a significant platform for APRA member states to showcase their achievements. He called on partner nations to stand in solidarity with Ethiopia in preparation for the event.